Betsy DeVos

Betsy DeVos is an American philanthropist and conservative political activist best known for serving as the 11th U.S. Secretary of Education (2017–2021) under President Trump. Her nomination was confirmed 51–50, with Vice President Pence casting the tiebreaking vote—an unprecedented moment in U.S. history.

For over three decades, DeVos has been a leading advocate for education freedom, promoting school choice, voucher programs, and charter schools as a means to empower underserved children. Her efforts have contributed to creating new educational options for K–12 students in more than 25 states and the District of Columbia, as well as expanding alternatives for adult and post‑high school learners.

Previously, DeVos served as Chairman of The Windquest Group, a privately held investment and management firm. She also held leadership roles as chair of the American Federation for Children, Philanthropy Roundtable, and the Michigan Republican Party.

She holds a B.A. from Calvin College and is married to entrepreneur and philanthropist Dick DeVos. The couple has four children and several grandchildren.